The holidays are just around the corner, and you’re probably feeling the excitement (and maybe a little stress) that comes with the days leading up to winter break. If you enjoy handing out student gifts, you might be trying to brainstorm some thoughtful, fun, and budget-friendly student gift ideas. Trust me, I’ve been there—planning student gifts for my high schoolers while juggling lesson plans ... Read More about 5 Student Gift Ideas From Their Teacher This Christmas
Christmas Holiday ELA Activities for Middle and High School
I love the holidays, so sprinkling in classroom cheer really adds a lot of joy to my work life! As a high school or middle school English teacher, you can ensure the final days before winter break are filled with fun, educational activities that keep your students engaged and learning to the last day. These holiday ELA activities will help you do just that! Christmas Holiday ELA ... Read More about Christmas Holiday ELA Activities for Middle and High School
How to Incorporate Independent Reading with Middle and High School Students
It’s my mission in life to make sure secondary students don’t lose their love of reading. Elementary teachers do a fantastic job of making reading a magical experience, and I believe this magic can continue in middle and high school as well. One way I’ve fostered a love of books in my classroom is with free-choice independent reading. When to do free-choice reading Students get 10 ... Read More about How to Incorporate Independent Reading with Middle and High School Students
STEM in English Language Arts Class
It wasn't until my Assistant Director of Schools tweeted a picture I sent out with the caption, "Mrs. Bible using STEM in ELA," that I realized I was even doing STEM at all. I just thought I was doing a really fun tiny house project! Ha! After that, I was all like: If this is STEM, then I'm in! ;) STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math (or ... Read More about STEM in English Language Arts Class
10 Things for English Teachers to Have on Hand that Make it Look Like You Have a Plan
I think my brain must work better in panic mode because many of my more creative ELA ideas come to me about 5 minutes before class begins when I have absolutely no plan for the day. I can normally throw something together pretty quickly, but I’ve learned that if I have my panic mode English teacher supplies ready and stored in my classroom, then I can actually act like I have my stuff together ... Read More about 10 Things for English Teachers to Have on Hand that Make it Look Like You Have a Plan
Fun Poetry Activities That Even High Schoolers and Middle Schoolers Love
It has been my experience that most secondary students don’t enjoy poetry. Sure, there are a select few of the artsy types that get into it, but most students are not fans. To be honest, I’ve not always been a big poetry fan either, so I can relate. But as I’ve grown to learn, poetry doesn’t have to be stuffy, boring, or traditional. Once you experience a few fun poetry activities, suddenly both ... Read More about Fun Poetry Activities That Even High Schoolers and Middle Schoolers Love
